Why Test Your VPN
A VPN is supposed to encrypt your internet traffic and hide your real IP address from websites and services you visit. However, VPNs can leak your real information through several mechanisms: IP leaks (the VPN connection drops but your traffic continues without protection), DNS leaks (your device sends DNS queries to your ISP instead of through the VPN tunnel), and WebRTC leaks (your browser exposes your real IP through WebRTC APIs).
Testing your VPN regularly ensures that it is providing the protection you expect. Many free VPNs and some paid VPNs have known leak issues. Running a comprehensive VPN test helps you identify whether your VPN has any of these vulnerabilities.
IP Address Leak Test
An IP leak occurs when your real IP address is visible to websites despite being connected to your VPN. This typically happens when the VPN connection drops and your device falls back to your regular internet connection without your knowledge. To test, visit an IP checking website like whatismyip.com both with and without your VPN connected. If the IP addresses are different, your VPN is working. If they are the same, you have an IP leak.
DNS Leak Test
A DNS leak happens when your device sends DNS resolution requests through your ISP's DNS servers instead of through your VPN's encrypted tunnel. This allows your ISP to see which websites you visit, even though your traffic is encrypted. Test for DNS leaks using online DNS leak test tools such as dnsleaktest.com or our DNS speed test tool, which shows which DNS resolver your device is actually using.
WebRTC Leak Test
WebRTC leaks are browser-level vulnerabilities that expose your real IP address even through a working VPN. We cover this in detail on our WebRTC Leak Test page. Most VPN users should test for WebRTC leaks separately because they operate at a different layer than VPN connections.
Fixing VPN Leaks
If your VPN test reveals any leaks, try these fixes: Enable your VPN's kill switch feature to block traffic when the VPN disconnects. Configure your device to use a secure DNS resolver. Disable WebRTC in your browser. Try a different VPN server or protocol. If leaks persist, contact your VPN provider's support team or consider switching to a different VPN service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I test if my VPN is working?
Compare your IP address with and without the VPN. Check for DNS leaks using a DNS leak test tool. Check for WebRTC leaks using a WebRTC test.
What is a DNS leak?
A DNS leak occurs when your device sends DNS queries to your ISP instead of through your VPN's encrypted tunnel, exposing your browsing activity.
What is a VPN kill switch?
A kill switch is a VPN feature that blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP from being exposed.
Do all VPNs have leak protection?
No. Free VPNs often lack kill switches and DNS leak protection. Many paid VPNs include these features but may need to be enabled manually.
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